Islamabad: In a significant move to preserve the integrity of national highways and ensure road safety, the Federal Minister for Communications, Privatization and Board of Investment, Abdul Aleem Khan, has announced stringent new measures for heavy vehicles on GT Road, similar to those on motorways. A joint meeting involving the National Highway Authority (NHA) and Frontier Works Organization (FWO) concluded with resolutions to enforce axle load restrictions and enhance monitoring through electronic challans.

According to Press Information Department, the meeting chaired by Abdul Aleem Khan focused on integrating policies between the NHA and FWO to manage the axle loads of trucks and trawlers. It was decided that weigh stations would be established comparable to those on motorways to ensure vehicles do not exceed the set weight limits, thereby preventing damage to the road infrastructure.

The Federal Minister emphasized the necessity of comprehensive surveillance to monitor traffic violations, including speeding, not using seat belts, and using mobile phones while driving. He asserted that these measures are crucial for maintaining the quality and safety of the highways.

Additionally, Abdul Aleem Khan highlighted future infrastructure plans, stating that all new motorways will be constructed with a minimum of six lanes and allow for two-way traffic to accommodate anticipated future needs. He also provided updates on the progress of the Sialkot, Kharian, and Islamabad motorway projects, which are to be expedited following a unified strategy by the NHA and FWO.

The briefing, which also included insights from Maj. General Abdul Sami, Director General of FWO, and Shehryar Sultan, Chairman of NHA, outlined the current status of various ongoing projects. Federal Secretary Communications, Ali Sher Mehsud, was also present.

A follow-up departmental meeting involving both organizations is scheduled for next week to finalize further actions on these initiatives.